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Adventures With Fido

Adventures With Fido

May 1, 2018

Are you planning to go on some fun excursions with your pet this summer? Fido loves to explore and sniff new patches of grass! Just be sure to keep your pet’s safety first. Here, a Teller County, CO vet discusses adventures with Fido.

Preventative Care

Before taking Fido camping or hiking, check with your vet to make sure your pup has the all-clear. You’ll also want to make sure your dog is up to date on his vaccinations, such as rabies.

ID

Making sure your pup is wearing proper ID isn’t just important for his safety: it’s required by law in many places. Fido should be microchipped and wearing current ID tags at all times. We also recommend keeping copies of your canine pal’s vaccination records and registration with you.

Training

Proper training is a must for our four-legged pals. Fido should know—and obey—basic doggy commands like Sit, Stay, Come, Heel, and Lay Down. This is very important when you take your furry friend off your property, as it can stop him from running off or approaching strange dogs, dangerous areas, or wild animals.

Water

Make sure to always bring lots of water, enough for both you and your canine buddy. If you are camping or hiking, don’t let Fido drink from unknown sources. The water may not be safe! You may want to pick up some disposable dishes, which are light and easy to carry.

Heat

Dogs can overheat pretty easily in hot weather. Fido is wearing a fur coat, and he can’t sweat except through his paws. Keep an eye out for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Some common ones are drooling, panting, fatigue, trembling, pale or red gums, lethargy, and vomiting. If you notice any of these symptoms, immediately stop and give Fido some water. If symptoms persist, get your furry buddy out of the heat and call your vet right away.

First Aid

Always keep a pet first aid kit with you, or at least in your car. You can make one by adding pet-specific items, like styptic powder, non-stick bandages, and tick poppers, to a regular first aid kit. It isn’t a bad idea to download pet first aid apps, either. Ask your vet for more information.